Canadian roots-rock band unveils latest single ahead of extensive international tour and July album release
Canadian roots, rock and soul band Bywater Call has released its latest single, “No One Else,” while also confirming the July 29 launch of its forthcoming studio album Broken Souvenirs. The Toronto-based seven-piece unveiled the new track on May 13 as part of a broader rollout that includes a North American and European tour stretching into 2027.
The single marks the third studio release from the band in 2026 and is now available across streaming platforms alongside an accompanying music video. Broken Souvenirs, the group’s fourth studio album, is currently available for pre-order.
Retro soul influences shape latest release
“No One Else” blends retro soul, roots rock and contemporary energy, drawing inspiration from artists including Black Pumas, Alabama Shakes and elements of funk and hard rock. Built around driving rhythms, atmospheric keyboards and a prominent horn section, the track explores themes of manipulation, misinformation and personal accountability.
“This song is a reflection of how, in the current world of manipulation and misinformation, we continue to allow deceitfulness to cause harm,” says Bywater Call’s guitarist Dave Barnes. “In the end, we have the strength within to defeat evil and take back our own power. If we don’t, there is no one else to blame but ourselves.”
The single was recorded at Palace Studios in Toronto, mixed by Patric McGroarty and mastered by Kristian Montano of Montano Mastering.
The accompanying music video was choreographed and directed by Chelsea Preston and filmed by Badee Mirkham. According to the band, the video uses fire and paper masks as symbolic representations of political and cultural instability, as well as the vulnerability of public opinion in an era shaped by misinformation.
Broken Souvenirs expands the band’s musical direction
The upcoming album features 11 original songs and continues Bywater Call’s approach of blending soul, blues, roots rock and R&B influences into a distinct sound. The record moves between retro-inspired soul tracks, stripped-down acoustic arrangements and contemporary rhythm-and-blues compositions.
The band said the album reflects its ongoing effort to evolve musically while maintaining the emotional intensity that has defined its previous work.
Industry recognition for the group has continued to grow over the past two years. UK-based publication Classic Rock previously named Bywater Call’s 2024 album Shepherd its “Blues Album of the Month” and later selected it as “Top Blues Album of the Year” in its annual roundup.
“Bywater Call’s sound is a band who knows exactly who they are. If this is where 2026 is heading for them, then pour another bourbon, hit repeat, and settle in.”
– Rock the Joint
“Singer Meghan Parnell has to be one of our favourite new voices (like Canada’s answer to Susan Tedeschi). She’s in sublime form. Smooth, slow-burning mix of modern soul and emotional nuance”
– Classic Rock
“One of My Favorite Bands… Meghan Parnell does a hell of a job. Put them in your playlist. Embrace it. Get the name out there”
– Joe Bonamassa, Different Shades of Blues, SiriusXM
Expanding international presence
Bywater Call has increasingly built an international following through its touring schedule and festival appearances. Earlier in 2026, the band received its third consecutive nomination for the UK Blues Awards’ “International Act of the Year.”
The group is set to perform throughout Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg and Spain during its European tour this spring before returning to Canada and the United States for a summer run of festival and theatre performances.
Canadian stops include Gravenhurst, Sarnia, Kincardine, Fredericton and Palmer Rapids, while U.S. appearances include shows in Colorado, Connecticut, New York, Washington and Florida.
The band’s touring plans will continue into early 2027 with additional dates scheduled across the United Kingdom and Europe, including performances in London, Manchester, Glasgow and Southampton.
Toronto-based ensemble continues rise on blues and roots circuit
Formed in Toronto, Bywater Call has become known for energetic live performances anchored by vocalist Meghan Parnell and guitarist Dave Barnes. The current lineup also includes Bruce McCarthy, Mike Meusel, Andrew Moljgun, Stephen Dyte and Julian Nalli.
The group has earned multiple nominations from both the UK Blues Awards and Canada’s Maple Blues Awards, including recognition in categories such as “Entertainer,” “Electric Act,” and “Best Female Vocalist.”
In recent years, the band has shared stages with artists including Tom Cochrane and Whitehorse, while vocalist Meghan Parnell has also performed alongside pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph.
Their 2025 live album Sunshine was released to strong reviews, following a year in which the band performed 130 shows across 11 countries.
“All soulful restraint, light-touch organ, and warm Nashville-ready guitar strains with beautifully from-the-heart vocals. A class act in action and must-listen for anyone seeking quality rootsy rock and soul.”
– Classic Rock
“Meghan Parnell soothes the soul of the new year with her one-of-a-kind, silky voice. How can you resist those horns, the guitar, and the outstanding musicians of Bywater Call? You can’t. Listen up!”
– Rock and Blues Muse